1

Republic of the Philippines

UNIVERSITY OF LA SALETTE, INC.
COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE EDUCATION
Dubinan East, Santiago City

PUBLIC AWARENESS OF COMMUNITY POLICING INITIATIVES

BY THE SANTIAGO CITY POLICE PERSONEL

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A
Research Paper
Presented to the Faculty of Criminal Justice Education in
University of La Salette College
Santiago City

___________

In
Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements in
Criminological Research 1

____________

By:

Biag, Carlos Miguel B.

Penuela, Juztin Angelo V
Ventura, Brixlee S.
Valdez, Maria Rose M.
Ventura, Earnest John C.

1st Semester, S.Y. 2024-2025

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INTRODUCTION

Public awareness of community policing initiatives is a vital component of fostering safer, more

harmonious communities. Community policing represents a collaborative approach to law enforcement,

where police officers and local residents work together to identify, prevent, and solve community issues.

This model is built on the principles of partnership, problem-solving, and proactive engagement, shifting

the focus of policing from reactive law enforcement to preventive measures rooted in community

collaboration.

Raising public awareness of these initiatives is essential for several reasons. First, it helps the

community understand the core values and objectives of community policing. By educating the public on

the benefits and practices of this approach, such as increased patrol visibility, neighborhood-based police

assignments, and community engagement programs, individuals are more likely to support and participate

in these efforts.

Increased public awareness also enhances trust between law enforcement agencies and community

members. When citizens are informed about the role of the police and how they can actively contribute to

crime prevention, it fosters mutual respect and collaboration. Trust is a key factor in successful

community policing, as it encourages citizens to share information, report crimes, and cooperate with law

enforcement in addressing local concerns.

Additionally, awareness of community policing initiatives empowers individuals to take ownership

of their safety and the wellbeing of their neighborhoods. Programs such as neighborhood watch groups,

community meetings, youth outreach programs, and local safety forums can help residents feel more

connected to law enforcement, promoting a sense of shared responsibility. These initiatives not only

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reduce crime rates but also address underlying social issues like poverty, unemployment, and education,

all of which contribute to criminal activity.

Furthermore, public awareness can drive more informed and constructive dialogue around policing

policies. When the community is well-informed about the goals and challenges of community policing,

discussions around police accountability, transparency, and reform become more productive. Citizens who

understand the complexities of law enforcement are better equipped to engage in meaningful

conversations, offer constructive feedback, and advocate for policies that reflect their needs and values.

Public awareness of community policing is an essential factor in fostering cooperation between law

enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. Community policing is a strategy that emphasizes

partnership, trust-building, and proactive problem-solving to address crime, social issues, and public

safety concerns. Instead of focusing solely on reactive responses to crime, community policing encourages

open communication and collaboration between police officers and local residents to prevent crime before

it happens.

Raising public awareness about community policing efforts is critical for its success. When

residents understand the principles of community policing and how it benefits them, they are more likely

to engage with law enforcement and actively participate in safety initiatives. Awareness programs help

inform the public about how they can collaborate with police through neighborhood watch programs,

crime prevention efforts, and local meetings aimed at discussing safety concerns.

By increasing public awareness, police agencies can foster trust, improve transparency, and build

stronger, more supportive relationships with the communities they protect. Public knowledge and

involvement are key to making community policing initiatives more effective, ultimately leading to safer,

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more unified neighborhoods where both police officers and citizens work together to maintain peace and

order.

Effective public awareness strategies include a variety of outreach efforts such as media campaigns,

public forums, educational workshops, social media engagement, and collaboration with community

organizations. Through these methods, law enforcement can keep the public informed about ongoing

initiatives, share success stories, and provide clear channels for community input and feedback.

In conclusion, public awareness of community policing initiatives is essential to building trust,

enhancing collaboration, and creating safer neighborhoods. When communities are informed and engaged,

they become active participants in the policing process, leading to more effective crime prevention,

improved relationships between the police and the public, and stronger, more resilient communities.

Public awareness of community policing is a vital aspect of creating safe and supportive

communities. Community policing is a modern law enforcement strategy that promotes collaboration

between the police and the public to proactively address issues such as crime prevention, safety concerns,

and neighborhood quality of life. This approach encourages residents and law enforcement to work

together as partners, recognizing that building strong relationships with the community can lead to better

solutions and more effective crime prevention.

Raising public awareness about community policing helps residents understand its goals and

benefits, making them more likely to engage with law enforcement and participate in local safety

programs. Awareness campaigns inform citizens about how they can be involved, whether through

neighborhood watch groups, reporting suspicious activities, or attending meetings to discuss safety

concerns with police officers.

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The significance of public awareness lies in its ability to foster trust, transparency, and cooperation

between the community and law enforcement. When residents are informed, they are more empowered to

take an active role in improving their neighborhoods. This leads to more open communication, stronger

partnerships, and a greater shared responsibility for public safety, ultimately contributing to the long-term

success of community policing initiatives.

Community policing is, in essence, a collaboration between the police and the community that

identifies and solves community problems. With the police no longer the sole guardians of law and order,

all members of the community become active allies in the effort to enhance the safety and quality of

neighborhoods. Community policing has far-reaching implications. The expanded outlook on crime

control and prevention, the new emphasis on making community members active participants in the

process of problem solving, and the patrol officers’ pivotal role in community policing require profound

changes within the police organization. The neighborhood patrol officer, backed by the police

organization, helps community members mobilize support and resources to solve problems and enhance

their quality of life. Community members voice their concerns, contribute advice, and take action to

address these concerns. Creating a constructive partnership will require the energy, creativity,

understanding, and patience of all involved. Reinvigorating communities is essential if we are to deter

crime and create more vital neighborhoods. In some communities, it will take time to break down barriers

of apathy and mistrust so that meaningful partnerships can be forged. Trust is the value that underlies and

links the components of community partnership and problem solving. A foundation of trust will allow

police to form close relationships with the community that will produce solid achievements. Without trust

between police and citizens, effective policing is impossible. This monograph is a product of the

Community Policing Consortium, which is made up of the International Association of Chiefs of Police,

the National Sheriffs’ Association, the Police Executive Research Forum, and the Police Foundation.

Reflecting the Consortium’s perspective, the document describes the historical evolution of community
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policing and its potential for the future, and it will provide the basis for the Consortium’s work with

demonstration sites and law enforcement organizations as they implement community policing. The

knowledge gained from this sitework will be reflected in future Consortium publications.

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1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Community policing has emerged as a critical strategy in contemporary law enforcement,

designed to cultivate a collaborative relationship between police agencies and the communities they

serve. This approach prioritizes proactive measures, actively involving citizens in the identification

and resolution of public safety concerns, while also fostering trust through open communication and

partnership. The success of community policing is largely contingent upon the level of awareness and

understanding that community members possess regarding its principles and practices. Community

policing has emerged as a critical approach to enhancing public safety and fostering trust between law

enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. It is defined as a philosophy that promotes

organizational strategies supporting the systematic use of partnerships and problem-solving

techniques, aiming to proactively address the root causes of crime and social disorder (Greene, 2000).

The concept of community policing originated in the United States during the 1970s in response

to rising crime rates and a perceived disconnect between police forces and the communities they serve.

This model emphasizes the importance of community involvement in policing processes and seeks to

build collaborative relationships between police and community members (Slogan, 2006). Public trust

in law enforcement is essential for effective policing. Research indicates that communities with higher

levels of trust in the police are more likely to cooperate with law enforcement efforts, report crimes,

and engage in preventive measures (Tyler, 2004). Conversely, a lack of trust can lead to reluctance in

cooperation, thereby undermining the overall efficacy of policing strategies (Weitzer & Touch, 2006).

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Awareness of community policing initiatives is vital for fostering public trust. Studies have

demonstrated that when community members are informed about the roles and responsibilities of

police within the framework of community policing, they are more inclined to engage positively with

law enforcement (Cao et al., 1996). Additionally, effective communication and outreach programs can

enhance public understanding and perception of police activities, facilitating a more cooperative

environment (Mazerolle et al., 2013). In the Philippines, awareness of community policing varies

significantly, with many citizens lacking knowledge about its principles and benefits, particularly in

rural areas. Despite ongoing outreach efforts by police agencies, the understanding of community

policing remains limited (Dela Cruz, 2021). Urban communities may experience better engagement

due to localized initiatives, yet overall public trust in law enforcement is undermined by issues such as

corruption and inadequate responses to community concerns (Bautista, 2020). Research indicates that

increasing awareness of community policing can enhance public trust, as a clearer understanding of its

collaborative nature encourages citizens to view law enforcement as allies rather than adversaries

(Gonzales, 2022). To address these awareness gaps, it is essential for law enforcement agencies to

adopt comprehensive communication strategies, provide training for police personnel, and promote

active community participation in policing initiatives (Alvarez, 2023).

Public awareness of community policing initiatives in Santiago City, Philippines, aims to foster

stronger relationships between the police force and local communities. This approach promotes

collaboration, trust, and shared responsibility for safety and security. Santiago City, located in the

province of Isabela, has seen the integration of various strategies to engage the public in maintaining

peace, such as organizing public meetings, social media campaigns, and outreach programs. These

initiatives inform citizens about their roles in crime prevention, encourage their active participation in

neighborhood watch programs, and address public concerns about safety. Ultimately, the goal is to

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create a safer and more cohesive environment through the cooperation of both law enforcement and

the public.

Community policing initiatives in Santiago City, Philippines, focus on increasing public

awareness and participation to enhance community safety and crime prevention. By strengthening the

relationship between local police and the community, these programs aim to create an environment

where citizens and officers work together to address crime and disorder. Through various activities

such as community dialogues, workshops, and partnerships with local organizations, the initiative

seeks to empower residents with knowledge about their rights, responsibilities, and the role they play

in maintaining peace. Public awareness campaigns, especially using local media and social platforms,

are key in reaching out to a wider audience, ensuring that the community understands the objectives of

community policing. These efforts also help build trust in law enforcement by showing a commitment

to transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to community concerns. In doing so, the police

force in Santiago City aims to create a safer and more connected community where collaboration is

essential for preventing crime and improving the quality of life for everyone.

The present study seeks to investigate the awareness of community policing initiatives across

various communities and evaluate its impact on public trust in law enforcement. By analyzing the

relationship between awareness and trust, this research aims to provide valuable insights that could

guide the formulation of more effective community policing strategies, ultimately contributing to the

establishment of safer and more cohesive communities.

Statement of the Problem

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The research aims to assess public awareness of Santiago City police's community policing

initiatives, exploring communication effectiveness, community involvement, and the impact on safety. It

also seeks to identify knowledge gaps and suggest ways to improve police-community engagement.

1. What is the level of awareness of the respondents on community policing

2. How does community policing improve public trust

3. What is the correlation of the level of awareness and level of public trust in law enforcement as

perceived by the respondents

4. What recommendation can be offered to enhance awareness of the correspondents on

community policing

Significance of the Study

The significance of the study on public awareness of community policing initiatives lies in its

potential to enhance public safety by fostering greater collaboration between the police and the

community. It highlights the importance of public knowledge in building trust and improving

relationships, leading to a more effective and transparent approach to law enforcement. Increased

awareness encourages community involvement, which can result in reduced crime rates and a stronger

sense of security within the community.

To the Community Members, lies in empowering residents to actively participate in public safety by

fostering stronger collaboration with law enforcement. It enhances trust, encourages community

involvement in crime prevention, and promotes transparency and accountability, resulting in a safer, more

cohesive, and engaged community.

To the Law Enforcers, it enhances policing effectiveness by fostering community support, trust, and

cooperation. It helps law enforcement build stronger relationships with the public, leading to more

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efficient crime prevention and better communication of initiatives. Ultimately, this improves transparency

and accountability in policing.

To the Future Researchers, it provides a foundation for exploring the effectiveness of community

policing and its relationship with public awareness. It serves as a reference for evaluating community

involvement in crime prevention and can guide future research on improving police-community

partnerships and communication strategies.

To the Barangay Officials, it helps strengthen collaboration with law enforcement and the community. It

provides insights for promoting community policing initiatives, improving trust, communication, and joint

efforts to maintain peace and order at the local level.

To the Policy Makers, it offers insights into public perceptions of community policing initiatives, helping

them identify gaps and improve communication. It guides the development of more effective policies that

enhance community engagement, strengthen police-community relations, and create more responsive and

sustainable public safety strategies.

Theoretical Framework

Community policing is centered on cultivating trust and collaboration between law enforcement

agencies and the communities they serve. Through proactive engagement with residence of Santiago City,

Philippines to address local concerns, law enforcement officers strengthen relationships, enhance public

trust, and improve public safety by fostering cooperation and facilitating open lines of communication.

Community policing theory, first introduced by Herman Goldstein (1979), emphasizes a proactive

and problem-solving approach to policing, in contrast to the traditional, reactive model. Goldstein

advocated for police to work closely with community members to identify and address underlying

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problems, not just respond to incidents of crime. This approach aims to build partnerships with the public

and foster cooperation, which is believed to improve public trust in the police.

Herman Goldstein also developed Problem-Oriented Policing (POP), a specific application of

community policing that focuses on identifying and solving the underlying problems that contribute to

crime and disorder. This theory advocates for police to work closely with the community to identify

recurring problems, analyze their causes, and develop long-term solutions.

According to Tom R. Tyler and Allan Lind(1992), emphasizes the fairness of the processes used by

authorities when interacting with the public. Tyler’s research shows that people are more likely to trust

and cooperate with the police when they perceive the processes to be fair, even if the outcomes are not in

their favor. Key elements include respect, voice, neutrality, and trustworthiness in police actions.

Conceptual framework

The study’s conceptual framework outlines three main components: input, process, and output. The

input includes the essential information about the target audience or respondents

The significance of this framework lies in its ability to provide a structured approach to understanding and

analyzing the study. By dividing the research process into three distinct components input, process, and

output it helps in organizing and guiding the flow of information and actions throughout the study.

INPUT Process Output

Profile of the 1. Data collection Assessed level of
respondents of respondent’s awareness on community
according to : profiles policing towards the
2. Administering improvement of public
A. Name
questionnaires trust in Santiago city
B.12Age
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C. Occupation
responses
D.
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Literature review

A literature review on awareness of community policing towards the improvement of public trust

explores the relationship between community policing initiatives and their impact on public trust in law

enforcement agencies. Community policing is a strategy that emphasizes building strong relationships

between police officers and the communities they serve, aiming to enhance cooperation, understanding,

and trust.

Public participation is at the core of community policing initiatives. Brown (1989) highlights that

community policing relies heavily on building partnerships between the police and the public to identify

and solve local problems. However, participation can only be effective if the community is aware of the

initiatives and understands the role they play in maintaining security. Community policing thrives when

residents are aware and feel empowered to collaborate with police officers to address neighborhood

concerns.

Cordner (2014) emphasizes that without a solid level of public awareness, community policing

programs may fail to gain the active support needed for success. His study showed that many well-

designed community policing programs failed because local communities were either unaware of the

initiatives or did not fully understand the benefits of engaging with law enforcement. Therefore, police

departments must prioritize raising awareness and promoting transparency about their activities.
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Awareness of community policing initiatives plays a crucial role in crime prevention. Gill,

Weisburd, Telep, Vitter, and Bennett (2014) conducted a meta-analysis of community policing

programs and found that higher levels of public awareness and involvement are associated with lower

crime rates. In areas where the public is well-informed about the police's efforts and engaged in

community problem-solving, there is a noticeable reduction in crime, particularly in urban neighborhoods.

Moreover, Reisig and Parks (2000) assert that public awareness is essential for building effective

crime prevention strategies. Their study found that communities with higher awareness levels of policing

efforts had stronger cooperation with law enforcement, leading to quicker responses to crime and fewer

occurrences of criminal activity. This highlights the importance of fostering public understanding and

participation as part of a comprehensive crime prevention strategy.

Perceived police legitimacy is a crucial outcome of public awareness of community policing efforts.

Sunshine and Tyler (2003) argue that when the public is informed about community policing and sees

the police engaging with them in a fair and transparent manner, it leads to increased perceptions of police

legitimacy. This perception is important because when citizens view the police as legitimate, they are

more likely to obey the law and cooperate with police efforts.

In a related study, Hawdon (2008) found that public awareness of community policing programs

enhances the perception of fairness and legitimacy, which improves overall relations between police and

the community. His research suggests that well-informed citizens are more likely to view police officers

as trusted partners in ensuring community safety, rather than as outsiders imposing control. This

reinforces the importance of ongoing efforts to keep the public educated about policing activities.

Despite the clear benefits of public awareness in community policing, several barriers exist that can

hinder public knowledge and participation. Skogan and Hartnett (1997) identify communication gaps

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between police departments and communities as a significant barrier to awareness. They argue that police

departments often fail to effectively disseminate information about their programs to the public, especially

in marginalized and low-income communities. These gaps in communication lead to low levels of

awareness, which reduces the overall effectiveness of community policing efforts.

Similarly, Rosenbaum (1994) found that a lack of police visibility and engagement in certain

neighborhoods can result in limited public knowledge of community policing initiatives. His study

revealed that many residents were unaware of police efforts in their communities because officers were

not actively involved in day-to-day neighborhood life. This emphasizes the need for police to be

consistently present and engaged in the communities they serve to build awareness and trust.

To address the barriers to public awareness, various strategies have been recommended in the

literature. Thacher (2001) suggests that police departments should implement targeted outreach

campaigns to increase awareness of community policing initiatives. This includes using social media

platforms, community meetings, and neighborhood associations to communicate with the public about

ongoing efforts and how they can get involved.

Additionally, Mazerolle, Bennett, Davis, Sargeant, and Manning (2013) propose that regular

feedback and updates to the public about the outcomes of community policing programs can help sustain

awareness and engagement. Their research shows that when the community is kept informed about the

results of their efforts—such as reductions in crime or improvements in neighborhood safety—residents

are more likely to continue participating in community policing initiatives.

Numerous studies have examined the outcomes of community policing on public trust. Weisburd

and Eck (2004) argue that the success of community policing programs can be measured by assessing
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indicators such as community satisfaction, reduction in crime, and improvements in public attitudes

toward the police. Their research suggests that well-executed community policing programs result in

positive changes in public trust, particularly in communities that experience high levels of crime or social

unrest.

In a similar vein, Skogan (2006) conducted a study evaluating community policing programs in several

U.S. cities and found that public trust in the police increased in areas where community policing had been

implemented effectively. However, the study also noted that trust improvements were more pronounced in

areas where community policing was accompanied by broader social reforms, such as economic

development and improvements in educational opportunities.

fundamental objective of community policing is the improvement of public trust in law enforcement. Trust

in the police is essential for effective policing, as it encourages community cooperation, increases

compliance with the law, and fosters a sense of safety. Tyler (2004) argues that police legitimacy, which is

crucial for effective law enforcement, is built on citizens’ perceptions of fairness, transparency, and

accountability in police practices.

Ren (2016) explores the impact of community policing on public trust and finds that, when implemented

successfully, community policing initiatives can significantly enhance citizens' trust in law enforcement.

Ren’s study suggests that communities with higher levels of engagement with police officers, such as

through neighborhood watch programs, regular communication, and collaborative problem-solving, tend

to exhibit greater trust in the police. On the other hand, the absence of community involvement or

negative experiences with police can undermine trust, even if community policing programs are in place.

The relationship between procedural justice and public trust is emphasized in Tyler’s (2004) work, where

he demonstrates that fair and respectful treatment by police officers increases the likelihood that the public

will trust the police. In the context of community policing, this means that when police officers engage

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with citizens in an open, transparent, and respectful manner, the level of public trust is more likely to

improve.

The success of community policing is significantly influenced by how aware and informed the public is

about the initiative. Rosenbaum (1994) suggests that effective communication between law enforcement

agencies and the public is critical in fostering a positive perception of community policing. Public

awareness campaigns, including educational outreach, media engagement, and community meetings, are

essential for building understanding and support for community policing strategies.

Studies show that when the public is well-informed about the goals and activities of community policing,

they are more likely to trust the police and cooperate with them. Mastrofski (2006) highlights that

outreach programs that educate the community about how community policing works and how they can

contribute to local safety can improve citizens' perceptions of police effectiveness. Similarly, Rosenbaum

(1994) emphasizes that without proper awareness, community policing efforts may fail to achieve their

intended outcomes.

In Kochel’s (2011) work, the author argues that lack of awareness can result in skepticism about the

legitimacy of community policing efforts, particularly in communities with a history of strained relations

with law enforcement. If the public is unaware of the goals and benefits of community policing, they may

not perceive it as an effective means of improving public safety, thereby hindering the development of

trust.

Community policing is grounded in the idea that police officers and community members should work

together to identify and address public safety issues. According to Trojanowicz and Bucqueroux (1990),

community policing represents a shift from traditional reactive policing to a proactive approach that

involves building strong relationships with citizens, improving communication, and fostering mutual
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respect. This approach seeks to create a more engaged and responsive police force, capable of solving

problems in partnership with the community.

In their studies, Wilson and Kelling (1982) argue that community policing is a response to the

shortcomings of traditional policing methods, which tend to focus on crime control rather than community

engagement. Community policing aims to break down the barriers between the police and the public,

encouraging a more cooperative approach to law enforcement. The effectiveness of this approach,

however, is heavily dependent on the public's awareness of its objectives and the extent to which they

believe in its legitimacy.

Community policing in the Philippines, known locally as Barangay-Based Policing, has been

developed in response to the need for closer collaboration between the police and the public to address

local crime and security concerns. Gonzales (2001) points out that the success of community policing in

the Philippines heavily relies on public awareness and participation. This approach emphasizes crime

prevention through community engagement, but its effectiveness is often tied to how well the public is

informed about these initiatives.

According to Anderson and Mangoraya (2013), community policing in the Philippines is often

implemented through the collaboration between the Philippine National Police (PNP) and local

government units, particularly barangay officials. However, public awareness of these initiatives varies

significantly across different regions and barangays, with some communities being more informed and

engaged than others. The study highlights the importance of educating the public about the roles they play

in community safety to enhance the impact of community policing programs.

Raising public awareness of community policing initiatives is essential for crime prevention in the

Philippines. Cabrera and Dizon (2016) explored the impact of awareness campaigns by the PNP on

crime rates in urban areas. Their findings suggest that when the public is well-informed about community

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policing efforts, there is a greater likelihood of community members cooperating with law enforcement in

crime prevention activities, such as reporting suspicious behavior or participating in neighborhood watch

programs.

In rural areas, Balisacan (2015) found that public awareness of community policing initiatives is

often lower due to limited access to information. His research suggests that in many rural barangays,

people are unaware of their local police's crime prevention efforts, resulting in weaker collaboration

between the community and the police. This study underscores the need for more targeted public

education campaigns, particularly in under-served areas.

Public trust is closely linked to awareness of community policing efforts in the Philippines. De

Guzman and Sarmiento (2017) argue that public trust in the police is strengthened when citizens are

aware of the initiatives being implemented to ensure their safety. Their study found that in communities

where police officers regularly communicated their efforts to the public, trust in law enforcement was

significantly higher. This trust is crucial because it leads to more cooperative relationships between the

police and the community, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of crime prevention efforts.

Similarly, Yap (2019) emphasizes that public trust is particularly important in areas with high crime

rates, such as Metro Manila. Yap’s study found that communities with a high level of awareness about the

Philippine National Police’s community policing efforts exhibited greater trust in law enforcement, and as

a result, were more likely to assist police officers in maintaining peace and order.

One of the major challenges in raising public awareness of community policing in the Philippines is

the lack of consistent communication between law enforcement and the community. Flores and Mendoza

(2014) note that while the PNP has made strides in implementing community policing strategies, there is

still a significant gap in reaching marginalized and remote areas. Many communities remain unaware of

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the PNP’s initiatives due to poor infrastructure, limited access to communication tools, and a lack of

public outreach.

Furthermore, Tolentino (2016) identifies that the limited training and resources available to the PNP

in terms of public engagement and communication also hinder the success of these initiatives. Tolentino’s

research reveals that while police officers are trained in law enforcement, they are often not equipped with

the necessary skills to effectively communicate with the public, particularly in building awareness of

community policing programs.

Several studies have recommended strategies to improve public awareness of community policing

initiatives in the Philippines. Espina (2018) suggests that police departments should collaborate more

closely with local government units and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to reach a broader

audience. Espina’s research shows that when community policing programs are promoted through

barangay meetings, local media, and social media platforms, public awareness increases, leading to higher

levels of community participation.

Technology has also become an important tool in raising public awareness of community policing

initiatives in the Philippines. Manalili (2021) notes that the rise of social media has provided new

opportunities for the PNP to engage with the public, particularly younger generations who are more active

online. Manalili’s study found that social media platforms, such as Facebook, are increasingly being used

by local police units to inform citizens about crime prevention efforts, upcoming community events, and

public safety tips.

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Cruz (2020) highlights that the use of mobile technology, particularly text messaging, has also been

successful in raising awareness about community policing in rural areas. Cruz’s study found that sending

SMS alerts to residents about community policing initiatives helped bridge the information gap in remote

areas where internet access is limited. This suggests that mobile technology can be a valuable tool for

improving public awareness of community policing initiatives across the Philippines.

Sorsogon Province Study (2017-2018): A key study in Sorsogon focused on increasing trust and

communication between citizens and police through the "One Sorsogon" program. This initiative

encouraged positive interactions and the use of SMS tip hotlines for citizens to report problems.

Researchers found that the program led to greater trust in the police, better community cooperation, and a

reduction in perceived crime

Bangsamoro Region (2017): The British Council has been involved in promoting community

policing in the conflict-affected Bangsamoro region of Mindanao. This project aimed to build a culture of

community-driven policing by educating citizens about its benefits and fostering cooperation between the

police and local communities. The project concluded with the development of a community policing

blueprint, designed to improve security and social cohesion

Community Policing in Mindanao: Additionally, another British Council initiative worked across

Mindanao’s provinces to introduce and train communities on the principles of community policing. This

included engagement with local stakeholders, improving policing practices, and ensuring greater citizen

participation

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These initiatives underscore the importance of community involvement in policing and the

potential for such programs to foster trust, improve police-community relations, and reduce crime. While

the results of these interventions vary, they demonstrate that informed community policing practices can

contribute to building public trust in law enforcement.

Methodology

The research methodology presents the methods that the researcher will use to gather an information

about Awareness on community policing towards the improvement of public trust in Santiago city

Research design

The study will use a quantitative descriptive research design to assess the public's awareness of

community policing initiatives by the Santiago City Police and how this awareness impacts public trust

and perceptions of police effectiveness. A random sample of Santiago City residents from different

demographic backgrounds will be selected to participate in the research.

Data will be collected using a structured survey questionnaire, which will gather information on

participants' demographic profiles, their level of awareness regarding community policing initiatives, their

trust in the police, and their perceptions of police effectiveness. The survey will be distributed both online

and in-person to ensure a wide reach.

The data collected will be analyzed using descriptive statistics to summarize awareness levels and

inferential statistics (such as t-tests or ANOVA) to explore whether differences in public trust exist based

on varying levels of awareness. Correlation analysis will also be used to examine whether increased

awareness is associated with greater trust and perceived effectiveness of the police.

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Site and Participants

The study will be conducted across multiple locations within Santiago City to ensure a

comprehensive and diverse collection of data. Specifically, it will take place at four major police stations:

Police Station 1, Police Station 2, Police Station 3, and Police Station 4. In addition to these police

stations, the research will extend to various barangays within Santiago City, including but not limited to

Centro East, Centro West, Calao East, Batal, Buenavista, Dubinan East, Dubinan West, Rosario, and

Victory Norte. The inclusion of these barangays is intended to ensure a broad representation of the

population, allowing the researchers to gather data from participants residing in different areas of the city,

thereby providing a more accurate and reliable reflection of public awareness across diverse communities.

The selection of multiple barangays is a strategic decision to capture varying levels of engagement

and awareness among residents in relation to community policing initiatives. The aim is to ensure that the

study reflects the experiences and perceptions of a wide range of individuals, from various socioeconomic

and demographic backgrounds, across different geographical locations within Santiago City. This

approach increases the study's capacity to identify trends, disparities, and patterns in public awareness that

may exist among different sectors of the population.

Furthermore, the research is being conducted by the researchers under the formal guidance and

supervision of their professor, ensuring that the study adheres to academic standards and follows

appropriate research methodologies. The professor’s oversight will help to guarantee the reliability,

validity, and ethical integrity of the research process, including data collection, analysis, and reporting.

Through this carefully structured and supervised research process, the study aims to provide meaningful

insights into public awareness of community policing initiatives in Santiago City.

Population, Sample Size, Sampling method

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The research will focus on a selected sample from the population within Santiago City, specifically

targeting four major police stations: Police Station 1, Police Station 2, Police Station 3, and Police Station

4,. From these police stations, a representative sample of 10 officers and staff from each station will be

selected for the study.

Additionally, the research will extend to residents from various barangays within Santiago City, including

Centro East, Centro West, Calao East, Batal, Buenavista, Dubinan East, Dubinan West, Rosario, and

Victory Norte. A sample of 100 residents from each barangay will be selected for the study, ensuring a

diverse and comprehensive representation of the city's communities. The total sample from the police

stations and barangays combined will consist of 40 police officers and 300 residents, making up a total

sample size of 340 individuals.

CATEGORY LOCATION TOTAL POPULATION SAMPLE SIZE

Police Stations Police Station 1 28 officers and staff 10

Police Station 2 35 officers and staff 10

Police Station 3 20 officers and staff 10

Police Station 4 22 officers and staff 10

Total (Police) 105 officers and staff 40

Barangays Centro East 905 residence 50

Centro West 1,216 residence 50

Calao East 4,269 residence 50

Batal 9,009 residence 50

Buenavista 4,525 residence 50

Dubinan East 2,304 residence 50

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Dubinan West 3,188 residence 50

Rosario 12,399 residence 50

Victory Norte 4,250 residence 50

Total (Barangays) 42,065 residence 450

Grand Total 42,170 490

This table presents the sample distribution, with 40 officers selected from the four police stations

and 450 residents from various barangays, resulting in a total of 490 participants. The fixed sample size

method used in this study ensures equal representation from each subgroup by selecting a set number of

participants, regardless of the subgroup's actual population size. This approach simplifies the sampling

process by making it easier to implement, as it avoids calculating proportional samples. However, this

method may introduce bias since larger subgroups, like bigger police stations or more populated

barangays, are underrepresented, while smaller ones are overrepresented. Despite this potential limitation,

the method is useful when the goal is to achieve balanced representation across all subgroups for

comparison purposes.

Data Collection Tools

Survey Design: The researcher design a self-made structured questionnaire to measure participants’

awareness of community policing efforts and the perceptions of public trust in local law enforcement.

The survey included both close-ended and Likert-scale questions to quantify awareness levels and trust.

It was administered online via Google Forms and in-person in selected Barangays in Santiago City.

Data Gathering procedure

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The researchers asked a permission to the research adviser to formally conduct this study. The

researchers asked for validation of the questionnaire to the research adviser. The researchers conducted a

survey through law enforcer and citizen of the community in Santiago city. All the data were gathered,

tallied, tabulated, computed, analyzed and interpreted under the close supervision of the research adviser.

Data Analysis

The statistical tools used in this data analysis can be described as follows:

1. Descriptive Statistics:

 Mean: The mean is used to calculate the average level of participants' awareness and trust in the

police. For example, participants' responses on a Likert scale (e.g., 1 to 5) regarding their

awareness and trust in police initiatives would be averaged to understand the central tendency.

 Percentage: The percentage is used to show the proportion of respondents who are aware of

community policing initiatives and who trust the police. This gives a clear picture of the

distribution of awareness and trust levels among participants.

2. Inferential Statistics:

 Percentage and Frequency Count: Although typically considered descriptive, these can help in

inferential analysis if used alongside statistical tests. They are often used to show the relationship

between two variables, such as the percentage of participants who are both aware of community

policing and exhibit high trust in the police.

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 Chi-square Test or Correlation Analysis (implied by "significant relationship"): While not

explicitly mentioned, tools such as the Chi-square test or Pearson correlation would be suitable

for inferential analysis to determine if there is a statistically significant relationship between

awareness of community policing initiatives and trust in the police.

Ethical consideration

The researcher ensures that the only needed information for the study will be gathered. Also, the

researchers will not force someone who refuses to answer. Informed consent will be sent to the chosen

respondents before answering the survey questionnaire to ensure that they are willing to participate. All

the gathered information will be kept confidential. rephrase

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References:

Goldstein, H. (1979). Improving policing: A problem-oriented approach. Crime & Delinquency, 25(2),
236–258. https://doi.org/10.1177/001112877902500207

Hawdon, J. E., & Ryan, J. (2003). Police-resident interactions and satisfaction with police: An empirical
test of community policing assertions. Criminal Justice Policy Review, 14(1), 55–74.
https://doi.org/10.1177/0887403402250669

Ren, L., Cao, L., Lovrich, N., & Gaffney, M. (2005). Linking confidence in the police with the
performance of law enforcement: Community policing can make a difference. Journal of Criminal
Justice, 33(1), 55–66. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcrimjus.2004.10.003

Scheider, M. C., Chapman, R., & Schapiro, A. (2009). Connecting the dots for a proactive approach: City
government, community policing, and homeland security. Public Organization Review, 9(3), 275–289.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11115-009-0080-6

Skogan, W. G. (2006). The promise of community policing. Crime & Delinquency, 52(1), 27–53.
https://doi.org/10.1177/0011128705281056

Tyler, T. R., & Lind, E. A. (1992). A relational model of authority in groups. Advances in Experimental
Social Psychology, 25, 115–191. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0065-2601(08)60283-X

Brown, L. P. (1989). Community policing: A practical guide for police officers. Journal of Criminal
Justice, 17(5), 389-401. https://doi.org/10.1016/0047-2352(89)90031-9

Cordner, G. (2014). Community policing: Principles and elements. Community Policing Consortium.
https://doi.org/10.1201/b15703-6

Gill, C., Weisburd, D., Telep, C. W., Vitter, Z., & Bennett, T. (2014). Community-oriented policing to
reduce crime, disorder and fear and increase satisfaction and legitimacy among citizens: A systematic
review. Journal of Experimental Criminology, 10(4), 399-428. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11292-014-9210-y

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Hawdon, J. E. (2008). Legitimacy, trust, social capital, and policing styles: A theoretical statement. Police
Quarterly, 11(2), 182–201. https://doi.org/10.1177/1098611107313947

Mazerolle, L., Bennett, S., Davis, J., Sargeant, E., & Manning, M. (2013). Legitimacy in policing: A
systematic review. Campbell Systematic Reviews, 9(1), 1–147. https://doi.org/10.4073/csr.2013.1

Reisig, M. D., & Parks, R. B. (2000). Experience, quality of life, and neighborhood context: A
hierarchical analysis of satisfaction with police. Justice Quarterly, 17(3), 607-630.
https://doi.org/10.1080/07418820000094651

Rosenbaum, D. P. (1994). The challenge of community policing: Testing the promises. SAGE
Publications.

Skogan, W. G., & Hartnett, S. M. (1997). Community policing, Chicago style. Oxford University Press.

Sunshine, J., & Tyler, T. R. (2003). The role of procedural justice and legitimacy in shaping public
support for policing. Law & Society Review, 37(3), 513-548. https://doi.org/10.1111/1540-5893.3703002

Thacher, D. (2001). Policing is not a treatment: Alternatives to the medical model of police research.
Journal of Research in Crime and Delinquency, 38(4), 387-415.
https://doi.org/10.1177/0022427801038004003 Anderson, G., & Mangoraya, R. (2013). Barangay-based
policing and its role in community safety. Philippine Journal of Criminology, 45(2), 112-130.

Balisacan, F. (2015). The role of public awareness in the success of community policing in rural
Philippine barangays. Journal of Crime and Justice Studies, 19(3), 55-70.

Cabrera, M. L., & Dizon, J. (2016). The impact of Philippine National Police awareness campaigns on
urban crime rates. Asian Journal of Policing Studies, 10(1), 33-50.

Cruz, R. (2020). The role of mobile technology in enhancing public awareness of community policing in
the Philippines. Philippine Law and Order Journal, 8(2), 98-113.

De Guzman, R., & Sarmiento, P. (2017). Public trust in the Philippine National Police: The role of
awareness in community policing. International Journal of Law and Society, 12(4), 74-89.

Espina, A. (2018). Collaborative efforts between local government units and the PNP in promoting
community policing initiatives. Philippine Governance Review, 15(3), 47-60.

Flores, L., & Mendoza, A. (2014). Challenges in raising public awareness of community policing in the
Philippines. Philippine Journal of Public Safety and Security, 6(1), 81-94.

Gonzales, M. (2001). Community policing in the Philippines: Issues and challenges. Asian Policing
Review, 3(2), 78-93.

Manalili, J. (2021). The impact of social media on public awareness of community policing in Metro
Manila. Journal of Philippine Public Safety, 10(2), 45-58.

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Mendoza, R., & Santos, P. (2020). Door-to-door public education campaigns: A strategy to increase
awareness of community policing. Journal of Public Safety Management, 12(1), 99-116.

Tolentino, B. (2016). The role of communication training in enhancing community policing efforts in the
Philippines. Philippine Law Enforcement Journal, 9(1), 62-75.

Yap, S. (2019). Public trust in community policing in high-crime areas of Metro Manila. Philippine
Journal of Police Studies, 15(2), 71-84.

PhilAtlas. (2020). Calao East, Santiago City, Isabela, Philippines. Retrieved from
https://www.philatlas.com/luzon/r02/isabela/santiago/calao-east.html

PhilAtlas. (2020). Centro East, Santiago City, Isabela, Philippines. Retrieved from
https://www.philatlas.com/luzon/r02/isabela/santiago/centro-east.html

Zamboanga.com. (2020). Centro West, Santiago City, Isabela, Philippines. Retrieved from
https://zamboanga.com/z/index.php?title=Centro_West%2C_Santiago_City%2C_Isabela%2C_Philippines

PhilAtlas. (2020). Batal, Santiago City, Isabela, Philippines. Retrieved from

https://www.philatlas.com/luzon/r02/isabela/santiago/batal.html

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Republic of the Philippines

UNIVERSITY OF LA SALETTE, INC.
COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE EDUCATION
Dubinan East, Santiago City

Dear Respondents,
This survey is part of a research study on public awareness of community policing
initiatives by the Santiago City Police. It aims to assess the public’s knowledge, participation, and
perceptions of these programs to help improve community engagement and public safety. Your
responses are anonymous and will be used only for research. Please answer based on your personal
experiences—there are no right or wrong answers. Your participation is highly valued and appreciated.
Thank you for your time.

Name (Pangalan): ____________________________________________ Date (Petsa)

_________
(Optional)
Occupation (Trabaho):_________________________________________ Age(Edad):_________

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Instruction: Please highlight the answers you select ( )

1) How aware are you of the community policing initiatives conducted by the Santiago City Police?
o Not aware at all
o Slightly aware
o Moderately aware
o Very aware
o Extremely aware

2) How frequently do you come across information about the Santiago City Police’s community
policing efforts?
o Never
o Rarely
o Occasionally
o Frequently
o Very frequently
3) How effective do you think the Santiago City Police are in informing the public about their
community policing programs?
o Not effective at all
o Slightly effective
o Neutral
o Moderately effective
o Very effective

4) How would you rate the visibility of the Santiago City Police’s community policing initiatives in
your area?
o Not visible at all
o Slightly visible
o Moderately visible
o Very visible
o Extremely visible

5) How useful do you find the information provided by the Santiago City Police regarding
community policing programs?
o Not useful at all
o Slightly useful
o Neutral
o Moderately useful
o Very useful

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6) How accessible is information about community policing initiatives through different channels
(social media, meetings, flyers, etc.)?
o Not accessible at all
o Slightly accessible
o Neutral
o Moderately accessible
o Very accessible

7) How well do you understand the goals and objectives of the Santiago City Police’s community
policing initiatives?
o Not at all
o Slightly understand
o Neutral
o Moderately understand
o Completely understand

8) How would you rate your level of trust in the Santiago City Police’s community policing
initiatives?
o No trust at all
o Slightly trust
o Neutral
o Moderately trust
o Fully trust

9) How effective do you think community policing efforts by the Santiago City Police are in
improving public safety?
o Not effective at all
o Slightly effective
o Neutral
o Moderately effective
o Very effective

10) How likely are you to participate in a community policing initiative if invited by the Santiago City
Police?
o Not likely at all
o Slightly likely
o Neutral
o Moderately likely
o Very likely

11) How committed do you think the Santiago City Police are to engaging with the community
through policing initiatives?

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o Not committed at all

o Slightly committed
o Neutral
o Moderately committed
o Very committed

12) How well do you think the Santiago City Police explain their community policing initiatives to the
public?
o Not well at all
o Slightly well
o Neutral
o Moderately well
o Very well

13) How inclusive do you think the Santiago City Police’s community policing efforts are for different
groups in the community (youth, elderly, businesses, marginalized groups, etc.)?
o Not inclusive at all
o Slightly inclusive
o Neutral
o Moderately inclusive
o Very inclusive

14) To what extent do you think the Santiago City Police’s community policing initiatives help reduce
crime in your neighborhood?
o Not at all
o Slightly helpful
o Neutral
o Moderately helpful
o Very helpful

15) How well do community policing efforts address the most important safety concerns in your area?
o Not at all
o Slightly well
o Neutral
o Moderately well
o Very well

16) How much do you think community policing initiatives improve trust between the public and the
Santiago City Police?
o 1 – Not at all
o 2 – Slightly
o 3 – Neutral

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o 4 – Moderately
o 5 – Very much

17) How effective are the Santiago City Police in responding to community concerns raised through
community policing initiatives?
o Not effective at all
o Slightly effective
o Neutral
o Moderately effective
o Very effective

18) How satisfied are you with the overall impact of community policing initiatives on your
neighborhood’s safety and security?
o Very dissatisfied
o Somewhat dissatisfied
o Neutral
o Somewhat satisfied
o Very satisfied

19) How effective do you think community policing is in reducing crime in your designated area?
o Not effective at all
o Slightly effective
o Neutral
o Moderately effective
o Very effective

20) Community policing efforts, such as neighborhood patrols and meetings, are effective in
preventing crime.
o Strongly disagree
o Disagree
o Neutral
o Agree
o Strongly agree

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Republic of the Philippines

UNIVERSITY OF LA SALETTE, INC.
COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE EDUCATION
Dubinan East, Santiago City

Dear Respondents,
This survey aims to assess the implementation and effectiveness of community policing
within your department. Your responses will help identify strengths, challenges, and opportunities for
improvement in community engagement and public trust. Please answer the following questions

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honestly based on your experiences. All responses will be kept confidential and used for research and
policy development purposes

Name (Pangalan): ____________________________________________ Date (Petsa)

_________
(Optional)
Occupation (Trabaho):_________________________________________ Age(Edad):_________

Instruction: Please highlight the answers you select ( )

1) How many years have you been involved in community policing?

o Less than 1 year
o 1-3 years
o 4-6 years
o More than 6 years

2) How often do you participate in community policing activities?

o Daily
o Weekly
o Monthly
o Rarely

3) What percentage of your overall duties involve community policing initiatives?

o Less than 10%
o 10-30%
o 30-50%
o More than 50%

4) How many community policing training sessions have you attended in the past year?
o 0
o 1-2
o 3-5
o More than 5

5) How many times per month do you communicate directly with community members about local
concerns?
o 0-5 times
o 6-10 times
o 11-15 times
o More than 15 times

6) How many community policing programs are currently active in your area of jurisdiction?
o 0-2
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o 3-5
o 6-8
o More than 8

7) What percentage of your interactions with the community are positive?

o Less than 25%
o 25-50%
o 50-75%
o More than 75%

8) In your opinion, does the level of crime in the community decrease as a result of community
policing initiatives?
o Yes
o No
o Unsure

9) Do you believe community policing improves public trust in law enforcement?

o Strongly agree
o Agree
o Neutral
o Disagree
o Strongly disagree

10) Have you noticed a positive change in public cooperation in criminal investigations due to
community policing?
o Yes
o No
o Somewhat

11) Do you believe that the amount of training you received in community policing directly impacts
your ability to effectively carry out these initiatives?
o Yes, significantly
o Yes, but only somewhat
o No, not really
o No, not at all

12) Does the socio-economic status of a community affect the success of community policing efforts?
o Yes, significantly
o Yes, but only moderately
o No, not really
o No, not at all

13) How frequently do you collaborate with community leaders (e.g., barangay captains, religious
figures) on policing strategies?
o Never
o Rarely (1-2 times per year)
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o Occasionally (3-5 times per year)

o Frequently (more than 6 times per year)

14) Does the frequency of community policing activities correlate with a reduction in complaints from
the public?
o Yes, a significant correlation
o Yes, but minor
o No
o Not sure

15) Are officers who participate more in community policing more likely to perceive an improvement
in neighborhood safety?
o Strongly agree
o Agree
o Neutral
o Disagree
o Strongly disagree

16) Is there a significant difference in the perceived effectiveness of community policing between
senior and junior officers?
o Yes, senior officers perceive it to be more effective
o Yes, junior officers perceive it to be more effective
o No, there is no difference

17) Do you believe there is a relationship between the socio-economic status of a community and the
success of community policing?
o Strongly agree
o Agree
o Neutral
o Disagree
o Strongly disagree

18) How often do you receive feedback from the community on your policing initiatives?
o Never
o Rarely
o Occasionally
o Frequently

19) To what degree do you believe that community policing increases transparency in law
enforcement?
o Greatly increases transparency
o Moderately increases transparency

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o Slightly increases transparency

o Does not increase transparency

20) Is there a significant difference in the outcomes of community policing in urban versus rural
areas?
o Yes, community policing is more effective in urban areas
o Yes, community policing is more effective in rural areas
o No, there is no significant difference

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